Padded glove

ABSTRACT

A glove that includes at least one layer and one or more pads coupled with the at least one layer is disclosed. The one or more pads may be secured to the at least one layer using an adhesive, integrated with the at least one layer, etc. The one or more pads may be positioned such that the one or more pads are disposed between the user&#39;s hand and a laparoscopic instrument when in use. In this manner, the one or more pads may reduce and/or distribute the pressure on the digits and/or hands resulting from use of laparoscopic instruments or other types of instruments.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/498,618, filed Jun. 20, 2011, entitled “PRESSUREALLEVIATING COMPONENT,” naming Marc M. Zare as the inventor, and havingattorney docket number ZARE0001.B. The present application also claimsthe benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/376,087, filedAug. 23, 2010, entitled “PRESSURE ALLEVIATING COMPONENT,” naming Marc M.Zare as the inventor, and having attorney docket number ZARE0001.A.Those applications are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety and for all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In recent years, the popularity of laparoscopic or minimally invasivesurgery has increased. Laparoscopic surgery typically involves usinglaparoscopic instruments (e.g., 100 of FIG. 1) and laparoscopes toperform surgical procedures through small openings or incisions in theabdominal wall (e.g., 110). Trocars or ports (e.g., 120) are insertedinto the incisions and held in place by tissues of the abdominal wall,thereby forming a port or opening through which the laparoscopicinstruments and laparoscopes can be inserted. Once the surgery iscomplete, the trocars are removed and the incisions are closed. In thismanner, laparoscopic surgery can reduce scaring, recovery time andprovide other known advantages.

Laparoscopic instruments are generally composed of several members. Forexample, handles 102 and 104 may be held similar to a pair of scissors(e.g., by inserting a thumb into ring 103 and the ring finger or otherfinger into ring 105) and used to articulate component 106. A linkageinside shaft 108 may connect component 106 to handles 102 and 104.Component 102 may be configured similar to a pair of pliers (e.g., toclamp, pull, etc.), a pair of scissors (e.g., to cut), or some otherinstrument. As such, component 106 may be used to perform surgicalprocedures inside the abdomen or another part of the body whilemanipulated outside the abdomen using handles 102 and 104.

Although laparoscopic instruments can be used to perform surgicalprocedures, the forces required to manipulate the handles can causediscomfort or injury to the hands. For example, typical laparoscopicsurgeries require repeated manipulations of the handles of laparoscopicinstruments. Each movement of the handles applies relatively high,localized pressure to the digits and/or other portions of the hand.Accordingly, the repeated manipulations of the laparoscopic instrumentsover an extended duration during surgery can cause injury to nerves,ligaments, tendons, muscles, bones, cartilage and other tissues of thedigits and/or hands.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, a need exists to reduce and/or distribute the pressure onthe digits and/or hands resulting from use of laparoscopic instrumentsor other types of instruments. A need also exists to reduce and/ordistribute the pressure on the digits and/or hands resulting from use oflaparoscopic instruments or other types of instruments while maintainingadequate tactile sensation and/or adequate dexterity. Additionally, aneed exists to reduce and/or distribute the pressure on the digitsand/or hands resulting from use of laparoscopic instruments or othertypes of instruments while reducing the likelihood of infection.Embodiments of the present invention provide novel solutions to theseneeds and others as described below.

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a glove thatincludes at least one layer and one or more pads coupled with the atleast one layer. The one or more pads may be secured to the at least onelayer using an adhesive, integrated with the at least one layer, etc.The one or more pads may be positioned such that the one or more padsare disposed between the user's hand and a laparoscopic instrument(e.g., rings 103 and/or ring 105 of laparoscopic instrument 100) when inuse. In this manner, the one or more pads may reduce and/or distributethe pressure on the digits (e.g., thumb, at least one finger, etc.)and/or hands resulting from use of laparoscopic instruments or othertypes of instruments.

In one embodiment, the one or more pads may be configured to maintainadequate tactile sensation (e.g., by using a relatively elastic and/orflexible material, by limiting the thickness of the pad, by positioningthe one or more pads away from volar or palmar side of the hand, bypositioning the one or more pads away from a tip of a digit, bypositioning the one or more pads away from a pulp or pad of a digit,etc.). The one or more pads may be configured to maintain adequatedexterity (e.g., by locating the pad such that it does not overlap oneor more joints of a digit, by reducing at least one dimension of the padaround a joint of the digit, by using a relatively elastic and/orflexible material, etc.). In one embodiment, the at least one layer mayreduce or inhibit permeation of one or more materials (e.g., water,other fluids, organisms, etc.), thereby reducing the risk of infectionto the user.

In one embodiment, a glove includes at least one layer operable to atleast partially cover a digit, wherein the at least one layer iswatertight. The glove also includes a pad coupled with the at least onelayer, wherein the pad is positioned away from a tip section of at leastone layer, wherein the pad is operable to reduce pressure on the digitresponsive to a force applied thereto.

In another embodiment, a surgical glove includes a first section havinga first thickness. The surgical glove also includes a second sectioncoupled with the first section and having a second thickness, whereinthe second thickness is larger than the first thickness. The first andsecond sections are operable to at least partially cover a digit,wherein the first and second sections are watertight, and wherein thesecond section is operable to reduce pressure on the digit responsive toa force applied thereto by a surgical instrument.

In yet another embodiment, an apparatus includes a glove. The gloveincludes at least one layer operable to at least partially cover adigit, wherein the at least one layer is watertight. The glove alsoincludes a pad coupled with the at least one layer, wherein the pad ispositioned away from a tip section of at least one layer, and whereinthe pad is operable to reduce pressure on the digit responsive to aforce applied thereto. The apparatus also includes packaging operable toaccept the glove.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by wayof limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in whichlike reference numerals refer to similar elements.

FIG. 1 shows a conventional laparoscopic instrument.

FIG. 2A shows a first side of an exemplary glove in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2B shows a second side of an exemplary glove in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3A shows an exemplary digital section with a pad positioned toreduce overlap of joints of a digit in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 3B shows an exemplary digital section with a pad positioned over ajoint of a digit in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3C shows an exemplary digital section with a pad positioned overmultiple joints of a digit in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 3D shows an exemplary digital section with a pad positioned over atleast one joint of a digit in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 4A shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary digital sectionwith at least one pad disposed on a first side of at least one layer inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4B shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary digital sectionwith at least one pad disposed on a second side of at least one layer inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows a first side of an exemplary glove with at least onebridged pad in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 shows a second side of an exemplary glove with at least onebridged pad in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7A shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary digital sectionwith at least one bridged pad disposed on a first side of at least onelayer in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7B shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary digital sectionwith at least one bridged pad disposed on a second side of at least onelayer in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 shows a first side of an exemplary glove with at least one padwith a wide bridge in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 9 shows a second side of an exemplary glove with at least one padwith a wide bridge in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 10A shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary digital sectionwith a pad capable of circumscribing a user's digit and located on afirst side of at least one layer in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 10B shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary digital sectionwith a pad capable of circumscribing a user's digit and located on asecond side of at least one layer in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 11 shows an exemplary glove with at least one pad coupled with aninner section in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 12 shows an exemplary pad including at least one beveled edge inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13A shows an exemplary pad with at least one depression inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13B shows an exemplary pad with at least one protrusion inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 shows an exemplary pad assembly in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 shows an exemplary pad including a plurality of thicknesses inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 shows an exemplary apparatus including at least one packagedglove in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17A shows an exemplary apparatus in an open position in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17B shows an exemplary apparatus in a closed position in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the presentinvention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. While the present invention will be discussed in conjunctionwith the following embodiments, it will be understood that they are notintended to limit the present invention to these embodiments alone. Onthe contrary, the present invention is intended to cover alternatives,modifications, and equivalents which may be included with the spirit andscope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.Furthermore, in the following detailed description of the presentinvention, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide athorough understanding of the present invention. However, embodiments ofthe present invention may be practiced without these specific details.In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, andcircuits have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarilyobscure aspects of the present invention.

Embodiments of the Invention

FIG. 2A shows a first side of exemplary glove 200 in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention, while FIG. 2B shows a second sideof exemplary glove 200 in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. As shown in FIG. 2A, glove 200 includes one or more pads(e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, etc.) coupled with at least one layer 220. Atleast one layer 220 may include multiple digital sections (e.g., 230,240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) operable to cover a digit (e.g., a thumb, atleast one finger, etc.), where each digital section may include arespective medial section (e.g., 231, 261, etc.), a respective lateralsection (e.g., 232, 262, etc.), a respective volar or palmar section(e.g., 233, 263, etc.), a respective dorsal section (e.g., 234, 264,etc.), and a respective tip section (e.g., 235, 265, etc.). The one ormore pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, etc.) may be positioned such thatthe one or more pads are disposed between the user's hand and alaparoscopic instrument (e.g., ring 103 of laparoscopic instrument 100depicted as outline 280, ring 103 of laparoscopic instrument 100depicted as outline 285, etc.) when in use. For example, pads 211 and212 may be positioned on digital section 230 (e.g., on lateral section232 and medial section 231, respectively), whereas pads 213 and 214 arepositioned on digital section 260 (e.g., on lateral section 262 andmedial section 261, respectively). In one embodiment, glove 200 mayinclude at least one pad (e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, etc.) that ispositioned on or overlapping a side (e.g., a medial section, a lateralsection, a volar or palmar section, or a dorsal section, somecombination thereof) of a digital section (e.g., 230, 240, 250, 260,270, etc.) and positioned away from (e.g., not positioned on oroverlapping) a tip of the digital section and/or a portion of thedigital section covering a pulp or pad of a digit. In this manner, theone or more pads may reduce and/or distribute the pressure on the digits(e.g., thumb, at least one finger, etc.) and/or hands resulting from aninstrument, thereby reducing risk of injury (e.g., non-penetratinginjury) to the nerves (e.g., digital nerves, etc.), ligaments, tendons,muscles, bones, cartilage and other tissues of the digits and/or hands.

Glove 200 may be used with one or more types of instruments. Forexample, glove 200 may be used with laparoscopic instruments (e.g., toperform laparoscopic surgery), other surgical instruments (e.g., toperform other types of surgery such as arthroscopic surgery,neurosurgery, open surgery, other types of surgery, etc.), etc. Asanother example, glove 200 may be used with dental instruments (e.g., toperform dentistry), instruments used by paramedics, instruments used bynurses, instruments used by beauticians, etc. And as yet anotherexample, glove 200 may be used with ringed instruments (e.g.,laparoscopic instrument 100, scissors, etc.), other types of instruments(e.g., rongeurs, dissectors, gouges, scalpels, scissors, pliers, etc.),etc. As such, although one or more embodiments of the present inventionmay be described with respect to laparoscopic instruments and/orlaparoscopic surgery, it should be appreciated that such description isexemplary and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, each digital section (e.g., 230, 240, 250,260, 270, etc.) may be configured to fit over a different digit of auser's hand. For example, digital section 230 may be a thumb section,and thus, configured to cover or overlap a thumb. The remaining digitalsections (e.g., 240, 250, 260 and 270) may be fingers sections andconfigured to cover or overlap fingers (e.g., the index finger, themiddle finger, the ring finger, and the pinky finger, respectively).Additionally, in one embodiment, the digital sections (e.g., 230, 240,250, 260, 270, etc.) may be coupled with or directly connected to atleast one inner section (e.g., inner section 290 of FIG. 2A covering thepalm of the user's hand, inner section 295 of FIG. 2B covering the backof the user's hand, etc.). In one embodiment, an inner section (e.g.,290 and/or 295) may be coupled with or include a cuff portion, where thecuff portion may extend away from one or more digital sections (e.g.,230, 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) and cover or overlap a sleeve of asterile gown (e.g., to reduce risk of contamination).

In one embodiment, glove 200 may be specific to a left hand or a righthand. For example, glove 200 may be configured to fit on a user's righthand, where glove 200 may not fit on the user's left hand or may not fitcomfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 200 maybe configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 200 may not fiton the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's righthand. Alternatively, glove 200 may be configured to fit both a righthand and a left hand in one embodiment.

In one embodiment, glove 200 may be disposable (e.g., intended for asingle use). Alternatively, glove 200 may be reusable (e.g., intendedfor a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/orsterilized).

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the one or more pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213,214, etc.) and/or at least one layer (e.g., 220) may be configured tomaintain adequate tactile sensation. For example, the one or more pads(e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, etc.) and/or at least one layer (e.g., 220)may be made from a material that is relatively elastic and flexible. Inone embodiment, at least one layer 220 may be made from latex,polyisoprene, neoprene, nitrile, silicone, another rubber or polymer,etc. The one or more pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, etc.) may be madefrom a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from TeknorApex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.),Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, siliconegel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation),another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, theone or more pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, etc.) may be made from amaterial with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO toapproximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO toapproximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A toapproximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materialsin one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressuredistribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequatetactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/oradvantages.

In one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by limiting thethickness of the one or more pads (e.g., to less than approximately 10mm, less than approximately 7 mm, less than approximately 6 mm, lessthan approximately 2 mm, less than approximately 1 mm, betweenapproximately 1 mm and approximately 2 mm, etc.) and/or the at least onelayer (e.g., to less than approximately 0.4 mm, less than approximately0.3 mm, less than approximately 0.25 mm, etc.). And in one embodiment,tactile sensation may be maintained by positioning the one or more padsaway from areas of the digits and/or hand used to feel, grasp, orperform other operations. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 211,212, 213, 214, etc.) may be positioned away from the volar or palmarside of the hand and/or digits, away from the tip of one or more digits,away from the pulp or pad of a digit, etc.

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the one or more pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213,214, etc.) and/or at least one layer (e.g., 220) may be configured tomaintain adequate dexterity. For example, the one or more pads (e.g.,211, 212, 213, 214, etc.) may be located such that the one or more padsdo not overlap one or more joints of a digit (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3A)in one embodiment. As another example, adequate dexterity may beprovided by reducing at least one dimension of the one or more padsaround a joint of a digit (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C). And asyet another example, the one or more pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214,etc.) and/or at least one layer (e.g., 220) may be made from a materialthat is relatively elastic and flexible, thereby providing adequatedexterity regardless of location of the one or more pads (e.g.,overlapping one or more joints, positioned away from one or more joints,etc.). As such, dexterity may be improved by enabling a user to moreeasily bend and move digits while wearing the glove (e.g., 200).

In one embodiment, the one or more pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, etc.)may be located such that the one or more pads do not overlap one or morejoints of a digit (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3A) in one embodiment.Alternatively, the one or more pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, etc.) maybe located such that the one or more pads do overlap at least one jointof a digit (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3B, 3C, 3D, etc.) in one embodiment.

FIG. 3A shows exemplary digital section 300A with pad 310 positioned toreduce overlap of joints of a digit in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention. As shown in FIG. 3A, pad 310 may be locatedbetween joints of a digit (e.g., represented by dashed lines 320 and330) when the glove is worn by a user. Pad 310 may be located on digitalsection 300A so that it does not overlap one or more of the joints ofthe digit in one embodiment. Alternatively, pad 310 may be located ondigital section 300A so that it partially overlaps (e.g., does notcompletely overlap) one or more of the joints of the digit. And in oneembodiment, pad 310 may be located on digital section 300A so that itdoes not span one or more of the joints of the digit. Since the overlapof one or more joints by pad 310 is reduced as shown in FIG. 3A, a usermay more easily bend and move the digit within digital section 300A andtherefore dexterity may be improved.

Digital section 300A may be a thumb section (e.g., 230) or a fingersection (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in one embodiment. Pad 310 maybe a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad 211 and/or pad 212) ora pad coupled with a finger section (e.g., pad 213, pad 214, a padcoupled with another finger section, etc.) in one embodiment.

Pad 310 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 310 may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

FIG. 3B shows exemplary digital section 300B with pad 340 positionedover a joint of a digit in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. As shown in FIG. 3B, pad 340 may be located so that it spansor overlaps a joint of a digit (e.g., represented by dashed line 350)when the glove is worn by a user. At least one dimension of pad 340 maybe reduced around or at the joint (e.g., as shown by the differencebetween dimensions 342 and 344). Since the pad (e.g., 340) includes lessmaterial around the joint, a user may more easily move and bend thedigit within digital section 300B and therefore dexterity may beimproved.

In one embodiment, pad 340 may be located on digital section 300B sothat overlap of one or more other joints of the digit is reduced. Forexample, pad 340 may be located on digital section 300B so that it doesnot overlap one or more other joints of the digit (e.g., represented bydashed line 360). As another example, pad 340 may be located on digitalsection 300B so that it partially overlaps (e.g., does not completelyoverlap) one or more other joints of the digit (e.g., represented bydashed line 360). And in one embodiment, pad 340 may be located ondigital section 300B so that it does not span one or more other jointsof the digit (e.g., represented by dashed line 360). Since the overlapof one or more other joints by pad 340 is reduced as shown in FIG. 3B,dexterity may be further improved.

As shown in FIG. 3B, digital section 300B may be a thumb section (e.g.,230) or a finger section (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in oneembodiment. Pad 340 may be a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad211 and/or pad 212) or a pad coupled with a finger section (e.g., pad213, pad 214, a pad coupled with another finger section, etc.) in oneembodiment.

Pad 340 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 340 may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

FIG. 3C shows exemplary digital section 300C with pad 370 positionedover multiple joints of a digit in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention. As shown in FIG. 3C, pad 370 may be located so thatit spans or overlaps multiple joints of a digit (e.g., represented bydashed lines 380 and 390) when the glove is worn by a user. At least onedimension of pad 370 may be reduced around the multiple joints (e.g., asshown by the difference between dimensions 372 and 374 with respect todimension 376). Since the pad (e.g., 370) includes less material aroundthe multiple joints, a user may more easily move and bend the digitwithin digital section 300C and therefore dexterity may be improved.

As shown in FIG. 3C, digital section 300C may be a thumb section (e.g.,230) or a finger section (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in oneembodiment. Pad 370 may be a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad211 and/or pad 212) or a pad coupled with a finger section (e.g., pad213, pad 214, a pad coupled with another finger section, etc.) in oneembodiment.

Pad 370 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 370 may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

FIG. 3D shows exemplary digital section 300D with pad 310D positionedover at least one joint of a digit in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention. As shown in FIG. 3D, pad 310D may be located sothat it spans or overlaps at least one joint of a digit (e.g.,represented by dashed lines 320D and 330D) when the glove is worn by auser. In one embodiment, pad 310D may protect the at least one jointthat it overlaps (e.g., from non-penetrating injury caused by alaparoscopic instrument, another surgical instrument, a dentalinstrument, an instrument used by paramedics, an instrument used bynurses, an instrument used by beauticians, a ringed instrument, othertypes of instruments, etc.).

As shown in FIG. 3D, digital section 300D may be a thumb section (e.g.,230) or a finger section (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in oneembodiment. Pad 310D may be a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g.,pad 211 and/or pad 212) or a pad coupled with a finger section (e.g.,pad 213, pad 214, a pad coupled with another finger section, etc.) inone embodiment.

Pad 310D may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 310D may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

Turning back to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the one or more pads (e.g., 211, 212,213, 214, etc.) and/or at least one layer (e.g., 220) may be configuredto reduce or inhibit permeation of one or more materials (e.g., water,other fluids, organisms, etc.). For example, at least one digitalsection (e.g., 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) may be watertight orotherwise configured to reduce or inhibit permeation of one or morematerials (e.g., water, other fluids, organisms, etc.) from theenvironment (e.g., outside of glove 200) to one or more digits of theuser's hand. As another example, at least one inner section (e.g., 290,295, etc.) may be watertight or otherwise configured to reduce orinhibit permeation of one or more materials (e.g., water, other fluids,organisms, etc.) from the environment (e.g., outside of glove 200) tothe user's hand. As such, in one embodiment, glove 200 may be configuredto reduce the risk of infection to the user.

Although FIGS. 2A and 2B depict a specific number of pads, it should beappreciated that glove 200 may include any number of pads in otherembodiments. For example, a given digital section (e.g., 230, 240, 250,260, 270, etc.) may include only one pad, more than two pads, etc. Asanother example, at least one pad may be disposed at or on only onedigital section or more than two digital sections in other embodiments.Additionally, although FIGS. 2A and 2B depict pads of a specific shapeand size, it should be appreciated that glove 200 may include one ormore pads of any shape and/or size. For example, one or more pads ofglove 200 may be circular, oval, square, rectangular, triangular,hexagonal, etc. As another example, one or more pads may overlap oroccupy different areas of at least one layer 220 in other embodiments.As yet another example, one or more pads may be different thicknesses(e.g., than that depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B, from one another, etc.) inother embodiments. Further, although FIGS. 2A and 2B depict pads inspecific positions, it should be appreciated that glove 200 may includeone or more pads in one or more other positions in other embodiments.

Although FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D depict a specific number of pads, itshould be appreciated that a given digital section (e.g., 300A, 300B,300C, 300D, etc.) may include any number of pads in other embodiments.Additionally, although FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D depict pads of a specificshape and size, it should be appreciated that the pads may be any shapeand/or size. For example, one or more pads of a given digital sectionmay be circular, oval, square, rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, etc.As another example, one or more pads may overlap or occupy differentareas of a given digital section (e.g., 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, etc.) inother embodiments. Further, although FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D depict padsin specific positions, it should be appreciated that the pads may be inone or more other positions in other embodiments.

FIG. 4A shows a cross-sectional view of exemplary digital section 400Awith at least one pad disposed on a first side of at least one layer 220in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 4A, at least one layer 220 may define an opening (e.g., 430)capable of accepting a digit (e.g., 440), where pads 410 and 420 may bedisposed on a first side (e.g., the side facing opening 430 and/or digit440) of at least one layer 220. Pads 410 and/or 420 may be secured to atleast one layer 220 (e.g., using an adhesive) in one embodiment.Alternatively, pads 410 and/or 420 may be integrated with (e.g.,co-molded, volcanically fused, manufactured as a single piece, etc.) atleast one layer 220. And in one embodiment, pads 410 and/or 420 may besecured or held in place by another glove (e.g., depicted by dashed line450) worn inside of at least one layer 220 and pads 410 and 420.

As shown in FIG. 4A, at least one layer 220 and at least one pad (e.g.,410 and/or 420) may create a plurality of sections with differentthicknesses. For example, a first section (e.g., including only at leastone layer 220 and located towards the top and/or bottom of digitalsection 400A as depicted in FIG. 4A) may have a first thickness that isless than a second thickness of a second section (e.g., including atleast one layer 220 and pad 410 and located towards the left of digitalsection 400A as depicted in FIG. 4A). As another example, a firstsection (e.g., including only at least one layer 220 and located towardsthe top and/or bottom of digital section 400A as depicted in FIG. 4A)may have a first thickness that is less than a third thickness of athird section (e.g., including at least one layer 220 and pad 420 andlocated towards the right of digital section 400A as depicted in FIG.4A).

Digital section 400A may be a thumb section (e.g., 230) or a fingersection (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in one embodiment. Pad 410and/or pad 420 may be a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad 211and/or pad 212) or a pad coupled with a finger section (e.g., pad 213,pad 214, a pad coupled with another finger section, etc.) in oneembodiment.

Pad 410 and/or 420 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such asMedalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., fromElastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLSCorporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel,acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam,another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 410 and/or 420 may be madefrom a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OOto approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO toapproximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A toapproximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materialsin one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressuredistribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequatetactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/oradvantages.

FIG. 4B shows a cross-sectional view of exemplary digital section 400Bwith at least one pad disposed on a second side of at least one layer220 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shownin FIG. 4B, at least one layer 220 may define an opening (e.g., 480)capable of accepting a digit (e.g., 440), where pads 460 and 470 may bedisposed on a second side (e.g., opposite opening 480 and/or digit 440)of at least one layer 220. Pads 460 and/or 470 may be secured to atleast one layer 220 (e.g., using an adhesive) in one embodiment.Alternatively, pads 460 and/or 470 may be integrated with (e.g.,co-molded, volcanically fused, manufactured as a single piece, etc.) atleast one layer 220. And in one embodiment, pads 460 and/or 470 may besecured or held in place by another glove (e.g., depicted by dashed line490) worn outside of at least one layer 220 and pads 460 and 470.

As shown in FIG. 4B, at least one layer 220 and at least one pad (e.g.,460 and/or 470) may create a plurality of sections with differentthicknesses. For example, a first section (e.g., including only at leastone layer 220 and located towards the top and/or bottom of digitalsection 400B as depicted in FIG. 4B) may have a first thickness that isless than a second thickness of a second section (e.g., including atleast one layer 220 and pad 460 and located towards the left of digitalsection 400B as depicted in FIG. 4B). As another example, a firstsection (e.g., including only at least one layer 220 and located towardsthe top and/or bottom of digital section 400B as depicted in FIG. 4B)may have a first thickness that is less than a third thickness of athird section (e.g., including at least one layer 220 and pad 470 andlocated towards the right of digital section 400B as depicted in FIG.4B).

Digital section 400B may be a thumb section (e.g., 230) or a fingersection (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in one embodiment. Pad 460and/or pad 470 may be a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad 211and/or pad 212) or a pad coupled with a finger section (e.g., pad 213,pad 214, a pad coupled with another finger section, etc.) in oneembodiment.

Pad 460 and/or 470 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such asMedalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., fromElastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLSCorporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel,acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam,another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 460 and/or 470 may be madefrom a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OOto approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO toapproximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A toapproximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materialsin one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressuredistribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequatetactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/oradvantages.

Although FIGS. 4A and 4B depict a specific number of pads, it should beappreciated that a given digital section may include any number of padsin other embodiments. For example, a given digital section (e.g., 400A,400B, etc.) may include only one pad, more than two pads, etc.Additionally, although FIGS. 4A and 4B depict pads of a specific shapeand size, it should be appreciated that a given digital section (e.g.,400A, 400B, etc.) may include one or more pads of any shape and/or size.For example, one or more pads of a given digital section (e.g., 400A,400B, etc.) may be circular, oval, square, rectangular, triangular,hexagonal, etc. As another example, one or more pads may overlap oroccupy different areas of at least one layer 220 in other embodiments.As yet another example, one or more pads may be different thicknesses(e.g., than that depicted in FIGS. 4A and 4B, from one another, etc.) inother embodiments. Further, although FIGS. 4A and 4B depict pads inspecific positions, it should be appreciated that a given digitalsection (e.g., 400A, 400B, etc.) may include one or more pads in one ormore other positions in other embodiments.

FIG. 5 shows a first side of exemplary glove 500 with at least onebridged pad in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.As shown in FIG. 5, pad 510 (e.g., located at digital section 230)and/or pad 520 (e.g., located at digital section 260) may be a bridgedpad. For example, side sections 511 and 512 of pad 510 (e.g., disposedat or on lateral section 232 and medial section 231, respectively) maybe connected by bridge section 513 (e.g., disposed at or on volarsection 233 of digital section 230). As another example, side sections521 and 522 of pad 520 (e.g., disposed at or on lateral section 262 andmedial section 261, respectively) may be connected by bridge section 523(e.g., disposed at or on volar section 263 of digital section 260). Inone embodiment, one or more of the side sections (e.g., 511, 512, 521,522, etc.) may be similar to or implemented using one or more pads ofany of the previous Figures (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214,pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470,etc.).

In one embodiment, glove 500 may include at least one pad (e.g., 510,520, etc.) that is positioned on or overlapping a side (e.g., a medialsection, a lateral section, a volar or palmar section, or a dorsalsection, some combination thereof) of a digital section (e.g., 230, 240,250, 260, 270, etc.) and positioned away from (e.g., not positioned onor overlapping) a tip of the digital section and/or a portion of thedigital section covering a pulp or pad of a digit. And in oneembodiment, pad 510 and/or pad 520 may be “U”-shaped. For example,bridge section 513 and side sections 511 and 512 may form a “U” shape inone embodiment. As another example, bridge section 523 and side sections521 and 522 may form a “U” shape in one embodiment.

In one embodiment, the bridge section (e.g., 513, 523, etc.) of a pad(e.g., 510, 520, etc.) may reduce cost or otherwise assist inmanufacturing the glove. For example, the bridge section (e.g., 513,523, etc.) may help control the distance between the side sections(e.g., 511 and 512, 521 and 522, etc.), control the relative positioningof the side sections (e.g., 511 and 512, 521 and 522, etc.), etc. Asanother example, the bridged section may reduce the cost ofmanufacturing one or more pads (e.g., by enabling the side sections thatmay otherwise be two separate pads to be manufactured as a singlepiece).

In one embodiment, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 510, 520,etc.) may include a second bridge section (e.g., not shown) located on adorsal side of one or more digital sections of glove 500 (e.g., similarto bridge sections 614 and 624 of FIG. 6). As such, in one embodiment,the pad may circumscribe a digital section and/or a user's digit withina digital section of glove 500 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 10A and/or 10B).Alternatively, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 510, 520, etc.)may not include a second bridge section located on a dorsal side of oneor more digital sections of glove 500 (e.g., similar to bridge sections614 and 624 of FIG. 6), and therefore, may not circumscribe (e.g.,completely encircle) a digital section and/or a user's digit within adigital section of glove 500.

As shown in FIG. 5, the one or more pads (e.g., 510, 520, etc.) may beconfigured to maintain adequate dexterity. For example, the one or morepads (e.g., 510, 520, etc.) may be located to reduce or prevent overlapof the bridge sections (e.g., 513, 523, etc.) with one or more joints ofa digit. As another example, one or more of the bridge sections (e.g.,513, 523, etc.) may be disposed between multiple joints of a digit. Inthis manner, adequate dexterity may be provided while also providing theadvantages of a bridged pad (e.g., 510, 520, etc.) discussed herein.

The one or more pads (e.g., 510, 520, etc.) may be configured tomaintain adequate tactile sensation. For example, the one or more pads(e.g., 510, 520, etc.) may be made from a material that is relativelyelastic and flexible. In one embodiment, pads 510 and/or 520 may be madefrom a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from TeknorApex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.),Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, siliconegel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation),another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pads510 and/or 520 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging fromapproximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging fromapproximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging fromapproximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It shouldbe appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness rangesmay provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction propertieswhile also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providingother benefits and/or advantages.

In one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by limiting thethickness of the one or more pads (e.g., to less than approximately 10mm, less than approximately 7 mm, less than approximately 6 mm, lessthan approximately 2 mm, less than approximately 1 mm, betweenapproximately 1 mm and approximately 2 mm, etc.). And in one embodiment,tactile sensation may be maintained by positioning the one or more padsaway from areas of the digits and/or hand used to feel, grasp, orperform other operations. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 510,520, etc.) may be positioned away from the volar or palmar side of thehand and/or digits, away from the tip of one or more digits, away fromthe pulp or pad of a digit, etc.

As shown in FIG. 5, glove 500 may be used with one or more types ofinstruments. For example, glove 500 may be used with laparoscopicinstruments (e.g., to perform laparoscopic surgery), other surgicalinstruments (e.g., to perform other types of surgery such asarthroscopic surgery, neurosurgery, open surgery, other types ofsurgery, etc.), etc. As another example, glove 500 may be used withdental instruments (e.g., to perform dentistry), instruments used byparamedics, instruments used by nurses, instruments used by beauticians,etc.

And as yet another example, glove 500 may be used with ringedinstruments (e.g., laparoscopic instrument 100, scissors, etc.), othertypes of instruments (e.g., rongeurs, dissectors, gouges, scalpels,scissors, pliers, etc.), etc. As such, although one or more embodimentsof the present invention may be described with respect to laparoscopicinstruments and/or laparoscopic surgery, it should be appreciated thatsuch description is exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of thepresent invention.

In one embodiment, glove 500 may be specific to a left hand or a righthand. For example, glove 500 may be configured to fit on a user's righthand, where glove 500 may not fit on the user's left hand or may not fitcomfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 500 maybe configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 500 may not fiton the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's righthand. Alternatively, glove 500 may be configured to fit both a righthand and a left hand in one embodiment.

In one embodiment, glove 500 may be disposable (e.g., intended for asingle use). Alternatively, glove 500 may be reusable (e.g., intendedfor a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/orsterilized).

Although FIG. 5 depicts a specific number of pads, it should beappreciated that glove 500 may include any number of pads in otherembodiments. For example, a given digital section (e.g., 230, 240, 250,260, 270, etc.) may include only one bridged pad, more than two bridgedpads, at least one bridged pad and at least one non-bridged pad (e.g.,211, 212, 213, 214, 310, 340, 370, 310D, 410, 420, 460, 470, etc.), etc.As another example, at least one pad may be disposed at or on only onedigital section or more than two digital sections in other embodiments.Additionally, although FIG. 5 depicts pads of a specific shape and size,it should be appreciated that glove 500 may include one or more bridgedpads of any shape and/or size. For example, one or more portions of oneor more bridged pads of glove 500 may be circular, oval, square,rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, etc. As another example, one or morebridged pads may overlap or occupy different areas of at least one layer220 in other embodiments. As yet another example, one or more bridgedpads may be different thicknesses (e.g., than that depicted in FIG. 5,from one another, etc.) in other embodiments. Further, although FIG. 5depicts pads in specific positions, it should be appreciated that glove500 may include one or more bridged pads in one or more other positionsin other embodiments.

FIG. 6 shows a second side of exemplary glove 600 with at least onebridged pad in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.As shown in FIG. 6, pad 610 (e.g., located at digital section 230)and/or pad 620 (e.g., located at digital section 260) may be a bridgedpad. For example, side sections 611 and 612 of pad 610 (e.g., disposedat or on lateral section 232 and medial section 231, respectively) maybe connected by bridge section 613 (e.g., disposed at or on volarsection 233 of digital section 230). As another example, side sections621 and 622 of pad 620 (e.g., disposed at or on lateral section 262 andmedial section 261, respectively) may be connected by bridge section 623(e.g., disposed at or on volar section 263 of digital section 260). Inone embodiment, one or more of the side sections (e.g., 611, 612, 621,622, etc.) may be similar to or implemented using one or more pads ofany of the previous Figures (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214,pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470,etc.).

In one embodiment, glove 600 may include at least one pad (e.g., 610,620, etc.) that is positioned on or overlapping a side (e.g., a medialsection, a lateral section, a volar or palmar section, or a dorsalsection, some combination thereof) of a digital section (e.g., 230, 240,250, 260, 270, etc.) and positioned away from (e.g., not positioned onor overlapping) a tip of the digital section and/or a portion of thedigital section covering a pulp or pad of a digit. And in oneembodiment, pad 610 and/or pad 620 may be “U”-shaped. For example,bridge section 613 and side sections 611 and 612 may form a “U” shape inone embodiment. As another example, bridge section 623 and side sections621 and 622 may form a “U” shape in one embodiment.

In one embodiment, the bridge section (e.g., 613, 623, etc.) of a pad(e.g., 610, 620, etc.) may reduce cost or otherwise assist inmanufacturing the glove. For example, the bridge section (e.g., 613,623, etc.) may help control the distance between the side sections(e.g., 611 and 612, 621 and 622, etc.), control the relative positioningof the side sections (e.g., 611 and 612, 621 and 622, etc.), etc. Asanother example, the bridged section may reduce the cost ofmanufacturing one or more pads (e.g., by enabling the side sections thatmay otherwise be two separate pads to be manufactured as a singlepiece).

In one embodiment, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 610, 620,etc.) may include a second bridge section (e.g., not shown) located on adorsal side of one or more digital sections of glove 600 (e.g., similarto bridge sections 514 and 524 of FIG. 5). As such, in one embodiment,the pad may circumscribe a digital section and/or a user's digit withina digital section of glove 600 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 10A and/or 10B).Alternatively, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 610, 620, etc.)may not include a second bridge section located on a dorsal side of oneor more digital sections of glove 600 (e.g., similar to bridge sections514 and 524 of FIG. 5), and therefore, may not circumscribe (e.g.,completely encircle) a digital section and/or a user's digit within adigital section of glove 600.

As shown in FIG. 6, the one or more pads (e.g., 610, 620, etc.) may beconfigured to maintain adequate dexterity. For example, the one or morepads (e.g., 610, 620, etc.) may be located to reduce or prevent overlapof the bridge sections (e.g., 613, 623, etc.) with one or more joints ofa digit. As another example, one or more of the bridge sections (e.g.,613, 623, etc.) may be disposed between multiple joints of a digit. Inthis manner, adequate dexterity may be provided while also providing theadvantages of a bridged pad (e.g., 610, 620, etc.) discussed herein.

The one or more pads (e.g., 610, 620, etc.) may be configured tomaintain adequate tactile sensation. For example, the one or more pads(e.g., 610, 620, etc.) may be made from a material that is relativelyelastic and flexible. In one embodiment, pads 610 and/or 620 may be madefrom a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from TeknorApex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.),Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, siliconegel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation),another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad610 and/or 620 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging fromapproximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging fromapproximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging fromapproximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It shouldbe appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness rangesmay provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction propertieswhile also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providingother benefits and/or advantages.

In one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by limiting thethickness of the one or more pads (e.g., to less than approximately 10mm, less than approximately 7 mm, less than approximately 6 mm, lessthan approximately 2 mm, less than approximately 1 mm, betweenapproximately 1 mm and approximately 2 mm, etc.). And in one embodiment,tactile sensation may be maintained by positioning the one or more padsaway from areas of the digits and/or hand used to feel, grasp, orperform other operations. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 610,620, etc.) may be positioned away from the volar or palmar side of thehand and/or digits, away from the tip of one or more digits, away fromthe pulp or pad of a digit, etc.

As shown in FIG. 6, glove 600 may be used with one or more types ofinstruments. For example, glove 600 may be used with laparoscopicinstruments (e.g., to perform laparoscopic surgery), other surgicalinstruments (e.g., to perform other types of surgery such asarthroscopic surgery, neurosurgery, open surgery, other types ofsurgery, etc.), etc. As another example, glove 600 may be used withdental instruments (e.g., to perform dentistry), instruments used byparamedics, instruments used by nurses, instruments used by beauticians,etc. And as yet another example, glove 600 may be used with ringedinstruments (e.g., laparoscopic instrument 100, scissors, etc.), othertypes of instruments (e.g., rongeurs, dissectors, gouges, scalpels,scissors, pliers, etc.), etc. As such, although one or more embodimentsof the present invention may be described with respect to laparoscopicinstruments and/or laparoscopic surgery, it should be appreciated thatsuch description is exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of thepresent invention.

In one embodiment, glove 600 may be specific to a left hand or a righthand. For example, glove 600 may be configured to fit on a user's righthand, where glove 600 may not fit on the user's left hand or may not fitcomfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 600 maybe configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 600 may not fiton the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's righthand. Alternatively, glove 600 may be configured to fit both a righthand and a left hand in one embodiment.

In one embodiment, glove 600 may be disposable (e.g., intended for asingle use). Alternatively, glove 600 may be reusable (e.g., intendedfor a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/orsterilized).

Although FIG. 6 depicts a specific number of pads, it should beappreciated that glove 600 may include any number of pads in otherembodiments. For example, a given digital section (e.g., 230, 240, 250,260, 270, etc.) may include only one bridged pad, more than two bridgedpads, at least one bridged pad and at least one non-bridged pad (e.g.,211, 212, 213, 214, 310, 340, 370, 310D, 410, 420, 460, 470, etc.), etc.As another example, at least one pad may be disposed at or on only onedigital section or more than two digital sections in other embodiments.Additionally, although FIG. 6 depicts pads of a specific shape and size,it should be appreciated that glove 600 may include one or more bridgedpads of any shape and/or size. For example, one or more portions of oneor more bridged pads of glove 600 may be circular, oval, square,rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, etc. As another example, one or morebridged pads may overlap or occupy different areas of at least one layer220 in other embodiments. As yet another example, one or more bridgedpads may be different thicknesses (e.g., than that depicted in FIG. 6,from one another, etc.) in other embodiments. Further, although FIG. 6depicts pads in specific positions, it should be appreciated that glove600 may include one or more bridged pads in one or more other positionsin other embodiments.

FIG. 7A shows a cross-sectional view of exemplary digital section 700Awith at least one bridged pad disposed on a first side of at least onelayer 220 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Asshown in FIG. 7A, at least one layer 220 may define an opening (e.g.,730) capable of accepting a digit (e.g., 440), where bridged pad 710 maybe disposed on a first side (e.g., the side facing opening 730 and/ordigit 440) of at least one layer 220. Pad 710 may be secured to at leastone layer 220 (e.g., using an adhesive) in one embodiment.Alternatively, pad 710 may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded,volcanically fused, manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least onelayer 220. And in one embodiment, pad 710 may be secured or held inplace by another glove (e.g., depicted by dashed line 750) worn insideof at least one layer 220 and pad 710.

As shown in FIG. 7A, at least one layer 220 and at least one pad (e.g.,710) may create a plurality of sections with different thicknesses. Forexample, a first section (e.g., including only at least one layer 220and located towards the bottom of digital section 700A as depicted inFIG. 7A) may have a first thickness that is less than a second thicknessof a second section (e.g., including at least one layer 220 and pad 710and located towards the left, top and/or right of digital section 700Aas depicted in FIG. 7A).

Digital section 700A may be a thumb section (e.g., 230) or a fingersection (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in one embodiment. Pad 710 maybe a bridged pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad 510, pad 610,pad 810 of FIG. 8, pad 910 of FIG. 9, etc.) or a bridged pad coupledwith a finger section (e.g., pad 520, pad 620, pad 820 of FIG. 8, pad920 of FIG. 9, a pad coupled with another finger section, etc.) in oneembodiment.

Pad 710 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 710 may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

FIG. 7B shows a cross-sectional view of exemplary digital section 700Bwith at least one bridged pad disposed on a second side of at least onelayer 220 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Asshown in FIG. 7B, at least one layer 220 may define an opening (e.g.,780) capable of accepting a digit (e.g., 440), where pad 760 may bedisposed on a second side (e.g., opposite opening 480 and/or digit 440)of at least one layer 220. Pad 760 may be secured to at least one layer220 (e.g., using an adhesive) in one embodiment. Alternatively, pad 760may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded, volcanically fused,manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least one layer 220. And in oneembodiment, pad 760 may be secured or held in place by another glove(e.g., depicted by dashed line 790) worn outside of at least one layer220 and pad 760.

As shown in FIG. 7B, at least one layer 220 and at least one pad (e.g.,760) may create a plurality of sections with different thicknesses. Forexample, a first section (e.g., including only at least one layer 220and located towards the bottom of digital section 700B as depicted inFIG. 7B) may have a first thickness that is less than a second thicknessof a second section (e.g., including at least one layer 220 and pad 760and located towards the left, top and/or right of digital section 700Bas depicted in FIG. 7B).

Digital section 700B may be a thumb section (e.g., 230) or a fingersection (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in one embodiment. Pad 760 maybe a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad 510, pad 610, pad 810of FIG. 8, pad 910 of FIG. 9, etc.) or a pad coupled with a fingersection (e.g., pad 520, pad 620, pad 820 of FIG. 8, pad 920 of FIG. 9, apad coupled with another finger section, etc.) in one embodiment.

Pad 720 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 720 may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

Although FIGS. 7A and 7B depict a specific number of pads, it should beappreciated that a given digital section may include any number ofbridged pads or non-bridged pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, 310, 340,370, 310D, 410, 420, 460, 470, etc.) in other embodiments. For example,a given digital section (e.g., 700A, 700B, etc.) may include only onepad, more than two pads, etc. Additionally, although FIGS. 7A and 7Bdepict bridged pads of a specific shape and size, it should beappreciated that a given digital section (e.g., 700A, 700B, etc.) mayinclude one or more bridged pads of any shape and/or size. For example,one or more portions of one or more bridged pads of a given digitalsection (e.g., 700A, 700B, etc.) may be circular, oval, square,rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, etc. As another example, one or morebridged pads may overlap or occupy different areas of at least one layer220 in other embodiments. As yet another example, one or more bridgedpads may be different thicknesses (e.g., than that depicted in FIGS. 7Aand 7B, from one another, etc.) in other embodiments. Further, althoughFIGS. 7A and 7B depict pads in specific positions, it should beappreciated that a given digital section (e.g., 700A, 700B, etc.) mayinclude one or more bridged pads in one or more other positions in otherembodiments.

FIG. 8 shows a first side of exemplary glove 800 with at least one padwith a wide bridge in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. As shown in FIG. 8, pad 810 (e.g., located at digital section230) and/or pad 820 (e.g., located at digital section 260) may have awide bridge. For example, side sections 811 and 812 of pad 810 (e.g.,disposed at or on lateral section 232 and medial section 231,respectively) may be connected by bridge section 813 (e.g., disposed ator on volar section 233 of digital section 230), where bridge section813 may be the same width or approximately the same width as sidesections 811 and 812. As another example, side sections 821 and 822 ofpad 820 (e.g., disposed at or on lateral section 262 and medial section261, respectively) may be connected by bridge section 823 (e.g.,disposed at or on volar section 263 of digital section 260), wherebridge section 823 may be the same width or approximately the same widthas side sections 811 and 812. In one embodiment, one or more of the sidesections (e.g., 811, 812, 821, 822, etc.) may be similar to orimplemented using one or more pads of any of the previous Figures (e.g.,pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D,pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, etc.).

In one embodiment, glove 800 may include at least one pad (e.g., 810,820, etc.) that is positioned on or overlapping a side (e.g., a medialsection, a lateral section, a volar or palmar section, or a dorsalsection, some combination thereof) of a digital section (e.g., 230, 240,250, 260, 270, etc.) and positioned away from (e.g., not positioned onor overlapping) a tip of the digital section and/or a portion of thedigital section covering a pulp or pad of a digit.

In one embodiment, the bridge section (e.g., 813, 823, etc.) of a pad(e.g., 810, 820, etc.) may reduce cost or otherwise assist inmanufacturing the glove. For example, the bridge section (e.g., 813,823, etc.) may help control the distance between the side sections(e.g., 811 and 812, 821 and 822, etc.), control the relative positioningof the side sections (e.g., 811 and 812, 821 and 822, etc.), etc. Asanother example, the bridged section may reduce the cost ofmanufacturing one or more pads (e.g., by enabling the side sections thatmay otherwise be two separate pads to be manufactured as a singlepiece).

In one embodiment, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 810, 820,etc.) may include a second bridge section (e.g., not shown) located on adorsal side of one or more digital sections of glove 800 (e.g., similarto bridge sections 914 and 924 of FIG. 9). As such, in one embodiment,the pad may circumscribe a digital section and/or a user's digit withina digital section of glove 800 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 10A and/or 10B).Alternatively, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 810, 820, etc.)may not include a second bridge section located on a dorsal side of oneor more digital sections of glove 800 (e.g., similar to bridge sections914 and 924 of FIG. 9), and therefore, may not circumscribe (e.g.,completely encircle) a digital section and/or a user's digit within adigital section of glove 800.

As shown in FIG. 8, the one or more pads (e.g., 810, 820, etc.) may beconfigured to maintain adequate dexterity. For example, the one or morepads (e.g., 810, 820, etc.) may be located to reduce or prevent overlapof the bridge sections (e.g., 813, 823, etc.) with one or more joints ofa digit. As another example, one or more of the bridge sections (e.g.,813, 823, etc.) may be disposed between multiple joints of a digit. Inthis manner, adequate dexterity may be provided while also providing theadvantages of a bridged pad (e.g., 810, 820, etc.) discussed herein.

The one or more pads (e.g., 810, 820, etc.) may be configured tomaintain adequate tactile sensation. For example, the one or more pads(e.g., 810, 820, etc.) may be made from a material that is relativelyelastic and flexible. In one embodiment, pad 810 and/or 820 may be madefrom a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from TeknorApex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.),Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, siliconegel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation),another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad810 and/or 820 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging fromapproximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging fromapproximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging fromapproximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It shouldbe appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness rangesmay provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction propertieswhile also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providingother benefits and/or advantages.

In one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by limiting thethickness of the one or more pads (e.g., to less than approximately 10mm, less than approximately 7 mm, less than approximately 6 mm, lessthan approximately 2 mm, less than approximately 1 mm, betweenapproximately 1 mm and approximately 2 mm, etc.). And in one embodiment,tactile sensation may be maintained by positioning the one or more padsaway from areas of the digits and/or hand used to feel, grasp, orperform other operations. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 810,820, etc.) may be positioned away from the volar or palmar side of thehand and/or digits, away from the tip of one or more digits, away from apulp or pad of a digit, etc.

As shown in FIG. 8, glove 800 may be used with one or more types ofinstruments. For example, glove 800 may be used with laparoscopicinstruments (e.g., to perform laparoscopic surgery), other surgicalinstruments (e.g., to perform other types of surgery such asarthroscopic surgery, neurosurgery, open surgery, other types ofsurgery, etc.), etc. As another example, glove 800 may be used withdental instruments (e.g., to perform dentistry), instruments used byparamedics, instruments used by nurses, instruments used by beauticians,etc. And as yet another example, glove 800 may be used with ringedinstruments (e.g., laparoscopic instrument 100, scissors, etc.), othertypes of instruments (e.g., rongeurs, dissectors, gouges, scalpels,scissors, pliers, etc.), etc. As such, although one or more embodimentsof the present invention may be described with respect to laparoscopicinstruments and/or laparoscopic surgery, it should be appreciated thatsuch description is exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of thepresent invention.

In one embodiment, glove 800 may be specific to a left hand or a righthand. For example, glove 800 may be configured to fit on a user's righthand, where glove 800 may not fit on the user's left hand or may not fitcomfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 800 maybe configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 800 may not fiton the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's righthand. Alternatively, glove 800 may be configured to fit both a righthand and a left hand in one embodiment.

In one embodiment, glove 800 may be disposable (e.g., intended for asingle use). Alternatively, glove 800 may be reusable (e.g., intendedfor a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/orsterilized).

Although FIG. 8 depicts a specific number of pads, it should beappreciated that glove 800 may include any number of pads in otherembodiments. For example, a given digital section (e.g., 230, 240, 250,260, 270, etc.) may include only one bridged pad, more than two bridgedpads, at least one bridged pad and at least one non-bridged pad (e.g.,211, 212, 213, 214, 310, 340, 370, 310D, 410, 420, 460, 470, etc.), etc.As another example, at least one pad may be disposed at or on only onedigital section or more than two digital sections in other embodiments.Additionally, although FIG. 8 depicts pads of a specific shape and size,it should be appreciated that glove 800 may include one or more bridgedpads of any shape and/or size. For example, one or more portions of oneor more bridged pads of glove 800 may be circular, oval, square,rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, etc. As another example, one or morebridged pads may overlap or occupy different areas of at least one layer220 in other embodiments. As yet another example, one or more bridgedpads may be different thicknesses (e.g., than that depicted in FIG. 8,from one another, etc.) in other embodiments. Further, although FIG. 8depicts pads in specific positions, it should be appreciated that glove800 may include one or more bridged pads in one or more other positionsin other embodiments.

FIG. 9 shows a second side of exemplary glove 900 with at least one padwith a wide bridge in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. As shown in FIG. 9, pad 910 (e.g., located at digital section230) and/or pad 920 (e.g., located at digital section 260) may be abridged pad. For example, side sections 911 and 912 of pad 910 (e.g.,disposed at or on lateral section 232 and medial section 231,respectively) may be connected by bridge section 913 (e.g., disposed ator on volar section 233 of digital section 230). As another example,side sections 921 and 922 of pad 920 (e.g., disposed at or on lateralsection 262 and medial section 261, respectively) may be connected bybridge section 923 (e.g., disposed at or on volar section 263 of digitalsection 260). In one embodiment, one or more of the side sections (e.g.,911, 912, 921, 922, etc.) may be similar to or implemented using one ormore pads of any of the previous Figures (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad460, pad 470, etc.).

In one embodiment, glove 900 may include at least one pad (e.g., 910,920, etc.) that is positioned on or overlapping a side (e.g., a medialsection, a lateral section, a volar or palmar section, or a dorsalsection, some combination thereof) of a digital section (e.g., 230, 240,250, 260, 270, etc.) and positioned away from (e.g., not positioned onor overlapping) a tip of the digital section and/or a portion of thedigital section covering a pulp or pad of a digit.

In one embodiment, the bridge section (e.g., 913, 923, etc.) of a pad(e.g., 910, 920, etc.) may reduce cost or otherwise assist inmanufacturing the glove. For example, the bridge section (e.g., 913,923, etc.) may help control the distance between the side sections(e.g., 911 and 912, 921 and 922, etc.), control the relative positioningof the side sections (e.g., 911 and 912, 921 and 922, etc.), etc. Asanother example, the bridged section may reduce the cost ofmanufacturing one or more pads (e.g., by enabling the side sections thatmay otherwise be two separate pads to be manufactured as a singlepiece).

In one embodiment, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 910, 920,etc.) may include a second bridge section (e.g., not shown) located on adorsal side of one or more digital sections of glove 900 (e.g., similarto bridge sections 814 and 824 of FIG. 8). As such, in one embodiment,the pad may circumscribe a digital section and/or a user's digit withina digital section of glove 900 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 10A and/or 10B).Alternatively, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 910, 920, etc.)may not include a second bridge section located on a dorsal side of oneor more digital sections of glove 900 (e.g., similar to bridge sections814 and 824 of FIG. 8), and therefore, may not circumscribe (e.g.,completely encircle) a digital section and/or a user's digit within adigital section of glove 900.

As shown in FIG. 9, the one or more pads (e.g., 910, 920, etc.) may beconfigured to maintain adequate dexterity. For example, the one or morepads (e.g., 910, 920, etc.) may be located to reduce or prevent overlapof the bridge sections (e.g., 913, 923, etc.) with one or more joints ofa digit. As another example, one or more of the bridge sections (e.g.,913, 923, etc.) may be disposed between multiple joints of a digit. Inthis manner, adequate dexterity may be provided while also providing theadvantages of a bridged pad (e.g., 910, 920, etc.) discussed herein.

The one or more pads (e.g., 910, 920, etc.) may be configured tomaintain adequate tactile sensation. For example, the one or more pads(e.g., 910, 920, etc.) may be made from a material that is relativelyelastic and flexible. In one embodiment, pad 910 and/or 920 may be madefrom a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from TeknorApex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.),Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, siliconegel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation),another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad910 and/or 920 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging fromapproximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging fromapproximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging fromapproximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It shouldbe appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness rangesmay provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction propertieswhile also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providingother benefits and/or advantages.

In one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by limiting thethickness of the one or more pads (e.g., to less than approximately 10mm, less than approximately 7 mm, less than approximately 6 mm, lessthan approximately 2 mm, less than approximately 1 mm, betweenapproximately 1 mm and approximately 2 mm, etc.). And in one embodiment,tactile sensation may be maintained by positioning the one or more padsaway from areas of the digits and/or hand used to feel, grasp, orperform other operations. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 910,920, etc.) may be positioned away from the volar or palmar side of thehand and/or digits, away from the tip of one or more digits, away fromthe pulp or pad of a digit, etc.

As shown in FIG. 9, glove 900 may be used with one or more types ofinstruments. For example, glove 900 may be used with laparoscopicinstruments (e.g., to perform laparoscopic surgery), other surgicalinstruments (e.g., to perform other types of surgery such asarthroscopic surgery, neurosurgery, open surgery, other types ofsurgery, etc.), etc. As another example, glove 900 may be used withdental instruments (e.g., to perform dentistry), instruments used byparamedics, instruments used by nurses, instruments used by beauticians,etc. And as yet another example, glove 900 may be used with ringedinstruments (e.g., laparoscopic instrument 100, scissors, etc.), othertypes of instruments (e.g., rongeurs, dissectors, gouges, scalpels,scissors, pliers, etc.), etc. As such, although one or more embodimentsof the present invention may be described with respect to laparoscopicinstruments and/or laparoscopic surgery, it should be appreciated thatsuch description is exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of thepresent invention.

In one embodiment, glove 900 may be specific to a left hand or a righthand. For example, glove 900 may be configured to fit on a user's righthand, where glove 900 may not fit on the user's left hand or may not fitcomfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 900 maybe configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 900 may not fiton the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's righthand. Alternatively, glove 900 may be configured to fit both a righthand and a left hand in one embodiment.

In one embodiment, glove 900 may be disposable (e.g., intended for asingle use). Alternatively, glove 900 may be reusable (e.g., intendedfor a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/orsterilized).

Although FIG. 9 depicts a specific number of pads, it should beappreciated that glove 900 may include any number of pads in otherembodiments. For example, a given digital section (e.g., 230, 240, 250,260, 270, etc.) may include only one bridged pad, more than two bridgedpads, at least one bridged pad and at least one non-bridged pad (e.g.,211, 212, 213, 214, 310, 340, 370, 310D, 410, 420, 460, 470, etc.), etc.As another example, at least one pad may be disposed at or on only onedigital section or more than two digital sections in other embodiments.Additionally, although FIG. 9 depicts pads of a specific shape and size,it should be appreciated that glove 900 may include one or more bridgedpads of any shape and/or size. For example, one or more portions of oneor more bridged pads of glove 900 may be circular, oval, square,rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, etc. As another example, one or morebridged pads may overlap or occupy different areas of at least one layer220 in other embodiments. As yet another example, one or more bridgedpads may be different thicknesses (e.g., than that depicted in FIG. 9,from one another, etc.) in other embodiments. Further, although FIG. 9depicts pads in specific positions, it should be appreciated that glove900 may include one or more bridged pads in one or more other positionsin other embodiments.

FIG. 10A shows a cross-sectional view of exemplary digital section 1000Awith a pad capable of circumscribing a user's digit and located on afirst side of at least one layer 220 in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention. As shown in FIG. 10A, at least one layer 220may define an opening (e.g., 1030) capable of accepting a digit (e.g.,440), where pad 1010 may be disposed on a first side (e.g., the sidefacing opening 1030 and/or digit 440) of at least one layer 220. Pad1010 may be secured to at least one layer 220 (e.g., using an adhesive)in one embodiment. Alternatively, pad 1010 may be integrated with (e.g.,co-molded, volcanically fused, manufactured as a single piece, etc.) atleast one layer 220. And in one embodiment, pad 1010 may be secured orheld in place by another glove (e.g., depicted by dashed line 1050) worninside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1010.

As shown in FIG. 10A, digital section 1000A may be a thumb section(e.g., 230) or a finger section (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in oneembodiment. Pad 1010 may be a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g.,pad 510, pad 610, pad 810 of FIG. 8, pad 910 of FIG. 9, etc.) or a padcoupled with a finger section (e.g., pad 520, pad 620, pad 820 of FIG.8, pad 920 of FIG. 9, a pad coupled with another finger section, etc.)in one embodiment.

Pad 1010 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 1010 may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

FIG. 10B shows a cross-sectional view of exemplary digital section 1000Bwith a pad capable of circumscribing a user's digit and located on asecond side of at least one layer 220 in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention. As shown in FIG. 10B, at least one layer 220may define an opening (e.g., 1080) capable of accepting a digit (e.g.,440), where pad 1060 may be disposed on a second side (e.g., oppositeopening 480 and/or digit 440) of at least one layer 220. Pad 1060 may besecured to at least one layer 220 (e.g., using an adhesive) in oneembodiment. Alternatively, pad 1060 may be integrated with (e.g.,co-molded, volcanically fused, manufactured as a single piece, etc.) atleast one layer 220. And in one embodiment, pad 1060 may be secured orheld in place by another glove (e.g., depicted by dashed line 1090) wornoutside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1060.

As shown in FIG. 10B, digital section 1000B may be a thumb section(e.g., 230) or a finger section (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in oneembodiment. Pad 1060 may be a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g.,pad 510, pad 610, pad 810 of FIG. 8, pad 910 of FIG. 9, etc.) or a padcoupled with a finger section (e.g., pad 520, pad 620, pad 820 of FIG.8, pad 920 of FIG. 9, a pad coupled with another finger section, etc.)in one embodiment.

Pad 1020 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 1020 may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

Although FIGS. 10A and 10B depict a specific number of pads, it shouldbe appreciated that a given digital section may include any number ofbridged pads or non-bridged pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, 310, 340,370, 310D, 410, 420, 460, 470, etc.) in other embodiments. For example,a given digital section (e.g., 1000A, 1000B, etc.) may include only onepad, more than two pads, etc. Additionally, although FIGS. 10A and 10Bdepict bridged pads of a specific shape and size, it should beappreciated that a given digital section (e.g., 1000A, 1000B, etc.) mayinclude one or more bridged pads of any shape and/or size. For example,one or more portions of one or more bridged pads of a given digitalsection (e.g., 1000A, 1000B, etc.) may be circular, oval, square,rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, etc. As another example, one or morebridged pads may overlap or occupy different areas of at least one layer220 in other embodiments. As yet another example, one or more bridgedpads may be different thicknesses (e.g., than that depicted in FIGS. 10Aand 10B, from one another, etc.) in other embodiments. Further, althoughFIGS. 10A and 10B depict pads in specific positions, it should beappreciated that a given digital section (e.g., 1000A, 1000B, etc.) mayinclude one or more bridged pads in one or more other positions in otherembodiments.

FIG. 11 shows exemplary glove 1100 with at least one pad 1110 coupledwith inner section 295 in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. As shown in FIG. 11, pad 1110 may be coupled with innersection 295 to reduce pressure in the area of the median nerve of thehand, thereby reducing the risk of injury to the median nerve. Forcesapplied to inner section 295 may result from use of laparoscopicinstruments (e.g., 100), other surgical instruments (e.g., rongeurs,dissectors, gouges, scalpels, scissors, etc.), dental instruments,instruments used by paramedics, instruments used by nurses, instrumentsused by beauticians, ringed instruments (e.g., laparoscopic instrument100, scissors, etc.), other types of instruments (e.g., rongeurs,dissectors, gouges, scalpels, scissors, pliers, etc.), etc.

Pad 1110 may be disposed on the inside of at least one layer 220 (e.g.,the side of at least one layer 220 facing the palm of the hand) in oneembodiment. In one embodiment, pad 1110 may be disposed on the outsideof at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220opposite the side facing the palm of the hand). In one embodiment, pad1110 may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded, volcanically fused,manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least one layer 220. And in oneembodiment, pad 1110 may be secured or held in place by another gloveworn inside and/or outside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1110.

As shown in FIG. 11, the at least one pad (e.g., 1110, etc.) may be madefrom a material that is relatively elastic and flexible. In oneembodiment, pad 1110 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such asMedalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., fromElastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLSCorporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel,acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam,another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 1110 may be made from amaterial with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO toapproximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO toapproximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A toapproximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materialsin one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressuredistribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequatetactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/oradvantages.

In one embodiment, glove 1100 may be specific to a left hand or a righthand. For example, glove 1100 may be configured to fit on a user's righthand, where glove 1100 may not fit on the user's left hand or may notfit comfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 1100may be configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 1100 may notfit on the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user'sright hand. Alternatively, glove 1100 may be configured to fit both aright hand and a left hand in one embodiment.

In one embodiment, glove 1100 may be disposable (e.g., intended for asingle use). Alternatively, glove 1100 may be reusable (e.g., intendedfor a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/orsterilized).

Although FIG. 11 depicts a specific number of pads, it should beappreciated that glove 1100 may include any number of pads in otherembodiments. For example, a plurality of pads may be disposed at innersection 295, at least one pad may be disposed at inner section 290, etc.As another example, glove 1100 may include at least one pad disposed atone or more digital sections (e.g., 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.).Additionally, although FIG. 11 depicts pads of a specific shape andsize, it should be appreciated that glove 1100 may include one or morepads of any shape and/or size. For example, one or more pads of glove200 may be circular, oval, square, rectangular, triangular, hexagonal,“L”-shaped, “J”-shaped, etc. Further, although FIG. 11 depicts pad 1100in a specific position, it should be appreciated that glove 1100 mayinclude one or more pads in one or more other positions in otherembodiments.

FIG. 12 shows exemplary pad 1200 including at least one beveled edge inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 12, surfaces 1210 and/or 1220 may form one or more beveled edges ofpad 1200.

Pad 1200 may be used to implement one or more of the other padsdescribed herein. For example, one or more of the other pads describedherein (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1300A of FIG. 13A, pad 1300B of FIG. 13B,pad 1410 of FIG. 14, pad 1500 of FIG. 15, etc.) may include one or morebeveled edges as discussed with respect to FIG. 12.

A beveled edge on pad 1400 may provide one or more advantages. Forexample, a beveled surface may increase the surface area of the top sideof pad 1200 (e.g., the top surface defined by surface 1230 and beveledsurfaces 1210 and/or 1220 is larger than a flat surface such as surface1240), thereby providing better adhesion to at least one layer 220. Asanother example, where surface 1240 is disposed on or coupled with atleast one layer 220, beveling of one or more edges of pad 1400 mayreduce the risk of delamination of pad 1400 from at least one layer 220caused by interference (e.g., catching, snagging, etc.) with otherobjects.

Pad 1200 may be disposed on the inside of at least one layer 220 (e.g.,the side of at least one layer 220 facing the palm of the hand) in oneembodiment. In one embodiment, pad 1200 may be disposed on the outsideof at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220opposite the side facing the palm of the hand). In one embodiment, pad1200 may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded, volcanically fused,manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least one layer 220. And in oneembodiment, pad 1200 may be secured or held in place by another gloveworn inside and/or outside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1200.

Pad 1200 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 1200 may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

Although FIG. 12 depicts a specific number of beveled edges on pad 1200,it should be appreciated that pad 1200 may include any number of bevelededges in other embodiments. Additionally, although FIG. 12 depictsbeveled surfaces of a specific shape and size, it should be appreciatedthat pad 1200 may include one or more beveled surfaces of any shapeand/or size. Further, although FIG. 12 depicts beveled edges, it shouldbe appreciated that an edge may be alternatively featured (e.g.,filleted, etc.).

FIG. 13A shows exemplary pad 1300A with at least one depression inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 13A, depression 1310 and depression 1320 may be defined in surface1330. Depression 1310 and/or depression 1320 may be a groove, channel,cavity, hole, etc. In one embodiment, pad 1300A may provide one or moreadvantages such as increased friction and/or grip to reduce slippage ofinstruments with respect to the glove, increased bonding strengthbetween the pad and the at least one layer (e.g., by providing cavitiesor other areas where the adhesive can flow around the at least onedepression, by increasing the surface area of the one or more surfacesof the pad to be adhered to or coupled with the at least one layer,etc.), etc.

Pad 1300A may be used to implement one or more of the other padsdescribed herein. For example, one or more of the other pads describedherein (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1200, pad 1300B of FIG. 13B, pad 1410 ofFIG. 14, pad 1500 of FIG. 15, etc.) may have one or more depressionsdefined therein as discussed with respect to FIG. 13A.

Pad 1300A may be disposed on the inside of at least one layer 220 (e.g.,the side of at least one layer 220 facing the palm of the hand) in oneembodiment. In one embodiment, pad 1300A may be disposed on the outsideof at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220opposite the side facing the palm of the hand). In one embodiment, pad1300A may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded, volcanically fused,manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least one layer 220. And in oneembodiment, pad 1300A may be secured or held in place by another gloveworn inside and/or outside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1300A.

Pad 1300A may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 1300A may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

Although FIG. 13A depicts a specific number of depressions defined inpad 1300A, it should be appreciated that pad 1300 may have any number ofdepressions defined therein in other embodiments. Additionally, althoughFIG. 13A depicts depressions of a specific shape and size, it should beappreciated that one or more depressions defined in pad 1300A may be ofany shape and/or size. For example, one or more depressions defined inpad 1300A may be square, rectangular, semi-circular, curved, etc.

FIG. 13B shows exemplary pad 1300B with at least one protrusion inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 13B, protrusion 1340 and protrusion 1350 may protrude or extendfrom surface 1360. Protrusion 1340 and protrusion 1350 may be a land,spike, etc. In one embodiment, pad 1300B may provide one or moreadvantages such as increased friction and/or grip to reduce slippage ofinstruments with respect to the glove, increased bonding strengthbetween the pad and the at least one layer (e.g., by providing cavitiesor other areas where the adhesive can flow around the at least oneprotrusion, by increasing the surface area of the one or more surfacesof the pad to be adhered to or coupled with the at least one layer,etc.), etc.

Pad 1300B may be used to implement one or more of the other padsdescribed herein. For example, one or more of the other pads describedherein (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1200, pad 1300A, pad 1410 of FIG. 14, pad1500 of FIG. 15, etc.) may include one or more protrusions as discussedwith respect to FIG. 13B.

Pad 1300B may be disposed on the inside of at least one layer 220 (e.g.,the side of at least one layer 220 facing the palm of the hand) in oneembodiment. In one embodiment, pad 1300B may be disposed on the outsideof at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220opposite the side facing the palm of the hand). In one embodiment, pad1300B may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded, volcanically fused,manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least one layer 220. And in oneembodiment, pad 1300B may be secured or held in place by another gloveworn inside and/or outside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1300B.

Pad 1300B may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 1300B may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

Although FIG. 13B depicts pad 1300B with a specific number ofprotrusions, it should be appreciated that pad 1300 may include anynumber of protrusions in other embodiments. Additionally, although FIG.13B depicts protrusions of a specific shape and size, it should beappreciated that pad 1300B may include one or more protrusions of anyshape and/or size. For example, one or more protrusions of pad 1300A maybe square, rectangular, semi-circular, curved, etc.

FIG. 14 shows exemplary pad assembly 1400 in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. Pad assembly 1400 includes pad1410, adhesive 1420 and removable backing 1430. Removable backing 1430may protect the adhesive surface (e.g., from dirt, moisture, or othercontaminants) until removable backing 1430 is removed. Once removablebacking 1430 is removed, pad 1410 may be coupled with and/or secured toat least one layer (e.g., 220) of a glove (e.g., 200, 500, 600, 800,900, 1100, etc.) using adhesive 1420. In one embodiment, pad 1410 may beremoved (e.g., from at least one layer 220) and reused (e.g., reappliedto at least one layer 220, to another glove, etc.).

Pad assembly 1400 may be used to implement one or more of the other padsdescribed herein. For example, one or more of the other pads describedherein (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1200, pad 1300A, pad 13008, pad 1500 ofFIG. 15, etc.) may include an adhesive for securing the pad as discussedwith respect to FIG. 14.

In one embodiment, pad assembly 1400 may be manufactured and/or soldseparately from a glove (e.g., 200, 500, 600, 800, 900, 1100, etc.). Inthis manner, a user may apply one or more pads to a glove (e.g., aninside surface of at least one layer 220, an outside surface of at leastone layer 220, etc.), thereby enabling a user to customize a glove tosuit specific needs of that user.

Pad 1410 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 1410 may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

Although FIG. 14 depicts pad 1410 with a specific shape and/or size, itshould be appreciated that pad 1410 may be a different shape and/or sizein other embodiments. For example, pad 1410 may be circular, oval,square, rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, “L”-shaped, “J”-shaped,“U”-shaped, etc.

FIG. 15 shows exemplary pad 1500 including a plurality of thicknesses inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 15, section 1510 of pad 1500 may include first thickness 1515,whereas section 1520 of pad 1500 may include second thickness 1525.First thickness 1515 may be constant across first section 1510 in oneembodiment, and second thickness 1525 may be constant across secondsection 1500 in one embodiment. Additionally, the thickness of pad 1500may vary along one or more sections (e.g., section 1530 and 1540). Thethickness of pad 1500 may vary linearly or as a non-linear function.

Pad 1500 may be used to implement one or more of the other padsdescribed herein. For example, one or more of the other pads describedherein (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1200, pad 1300A, pad 1300B, pad 1410,etc.) may include one or more beveled edges as discussed with respect toFIG. 12.

Pad 1500 may be disposed on the inside of at least one layer 220 (e.g.,the side of at least one layer 220 facing the palm of the hand) in oneembodiment. In one embodiment, pad 1500 may be disposed on the outsideof at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220opposite the side facing the palm of the hand). In one embodiment, pad1500 may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded, volcanically fused,manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least one layer 220. And in oneembodiment, pad 1500 may be secured or held in place by another gloveworn inside and/or outside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1500.

Pad 1500 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447(e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPETechnologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation),latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel(e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer,etc. In one embodiment, pad 1500 may be made from a material with ahardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more ofthese hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/orreduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation,dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.

Although FIG. 15 depicts pad 1500 with a specific number of thicknesses,it should be appreciated that pad 1500 may include any number ofthicknesses in other embodiments. Additionally, although FIG. 15 depictspad 1500 with a specific number of regions with varying thickness, itshould be appreciated that pad 1500 may include any number of regionswith varying thickness in other embodiments. Further, although FIG. 15depicts pad 1500 with a specific shape and size, it should beappreciated that pad 1500 may be a different shape and/or size in otherembodiments.

As described herein, one or more of the pads (e.g., pad 211, pad 212,pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420,pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad 610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760,pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad 1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad1200, pad 1300A, pad 1300B, pad 1410, pad 1500, etc.) may protectagainst non-penetrating injury. For example, one or more of the pads mayreduce and/or distribute the pressure on the digits (e.g., thumb, atleast one finger, etc.) and/or hands resulting from an instrument (e.g.,a laparoscopic instrument, another surgical instrument, a dentalinstrument, an instrument used by paramedics, an instrument used bynurses, an instrument used by beauticians, a ringed instrument, othertypes of instruments, etc.), thereby reducing risk of injury (e.g.,non-penetrating injury) to the nerves (e.g., digital nerves, etc.),ligaments, tendons, muscles, bones, cartilage and other tissues of thedigits and/or hands.

FIG. 16 shows exemplary apparatus 1600 including at least one packagedglove in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Asshown in FIG. 16, packaging 1610 and packaging 1620 may each contain orenclose a glove (e.g., glove 1615 and glove 1625, respectively).Packaging 1610 and packaging 1620 may be sealed to reduce or inhibitcontaminants from coming into contact with the gloves (e.g., 1615 and1625). In one embodiment, packaging 1610 and packaging 1620 may beairtight. Additionally, packaging 1610 and packaging 1620 may provide asanitized and/or sterilized environment for the gloves (e.g., 1615 and1625). Further, in one embodiment, packaging 1610 and/or packaging 1620may have a transparent or partially transparent window allowing a glove(e.g., 1615, 1625, etc.) to be viewed while still in the packaging.

Glove 1615 may be implemented in accordance with any of the glovesdescribed herein (e.g., 200, 500, 600, 800, 900, 1100, etc.) and/orinclude one or more of the pads described herein (e.g., pad 211, pad212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad 610, pad 620, pad 710, pad760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad 1010, pad 1060, pad 1100,pad 1200, pad 1300A of FIG. 13A, pad 1300B, pad 1410, pad 1500, etc.).Glove 1625 may be implemented in accordance with any of the glovesdescribed herein (e.g., 200, 500, 600, 800, 900, 1100, etc.) and/orinclude one or more of the pads described herein (e.g., pad 211, pad212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad 610, pad 620, pad 710, pad760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad 1010, pad 1060, pad 1100,pad 1200, pad 1300A of FIG. 13A, pad 13008, pad 1410, pad 1500, etc.).

In one embodiment, glove 1615 may be configured to fit on a user's righthand, whereas glove 1625 may be configured to fit on a user's left hand.In one embodiment, glove 1625 may be configured to fit on a user's righthand, whereas glove 1615 may be configured to fit on a user's left hand.And in one embodiment, glove 1615 and/or glove 1625 may be configured tofit both a right hand and a left hand in one embodiment.

In one embodiment, each packaging (e.g., 1610 and 1620) may contain onlya single glove. In other embodiments, a packaging (e.g., 1610 and 1620)may contain more than one glove. Where a packaging contains more thanone glove, a layer (e.g., a paper layer or layer of another material)may be used to wrap the gloves before insertion into the packaging(e.g., 1610, 1620, etc.).

Although FIG. 16 depicts packaging 1610 and packaging 1620 with aspecific shape and/or size, it should be appreciated that packaging 1610and/or packaging 1620 may have any shape and/or size in otherembodiments. Although FIG. 16 depicts glove 1615 and glove 1625 with aspecific shape and/or size, it should be appreciated that glove 1615and/or glove 1625 may have any shape and/or size in other embodiments.

FIG. 17A shows exemplary apparatus 1700 in an open position inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention, while FIG. 17Bshows exemplary apparatus 1700 in a closed position in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 17A, packaging1610 and packaging 1620 may be bound by hinge or seam 1710. Hinge orseam 1710 may rotatably couple packaging 1610 with packaging 1620. Assuch, apparatus 1700 may be opened (e.g., as shown in FIG. 17A) and/orclosed (e.g., as shown in FIG. 17B) similar to a book.

Although FIG. 17 depicts packaging 1610 and packaging 1620 with aspecific shape and/or size, it should be appreciated that packaging 1610and/or packaging 1620 may have any shape and/or size in otherembodiments. Although FIG. 17 depicts glove 1615 and glove 1625 with aspecific shape and/or size, it should be appreciated that glove 1615and/or glove 1625 may have any shape and/or size in other embodiments.

In the foregoing specification, embodiments of the invention have beendescribed with reference to numerous specific details that may vary fromimplementation to implementation. Thus, the sole and exclusive indicatorof what is, and is intended by the applicant to be, the invention is theset of claims that issue from this application, in the specific form inwhich such claims issue, including any subsequent correction. Hence, nolimitation, element, property, feature, advantage, or attribute that isnot expressly recited in a claim should limit the scope of such claim inany way. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regardedin an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

What is claimed is:
 1. A glove comprising: at least one layer operableto at least partially cover a digit, wherein said at least one layer iswatertight; and a pad coupled with said at least one layer, wherein saidpad is positioned away from a tip section of said at least one layer,and wherein said pad is operable to reduce pressure on said digitresponsive to a force applied thereto.
 2. The glove of claim 1, whereinsaid digit is selected from a group consisting of a thumb and a finger.3. The glove of claim 1, wherein said at least one layer comprises atleast one section, and wherein each section of said at least one sectionis selected from a group consisting of a medial section, lateralsection, volar section, a dorsal section and said tip section.
 4. Theglove of claim 1, wherein said at least one layer comprises a pluralityof sections, wherein a first portion of said pad is positioned at afirst section of said plurality of sections, and wherein a secondportion of said pad is positioned at a second section of said pluralityof sections.
 5. The glove of claim 4, wherein said first and secondportions of said pad are connected by a third portion of said pad. 6.The glove of claim 1, wherein said pad is shaped to overlap at least onejoint of said digit.
 7. The glove of claim 1, wherein said at least onelayer and said pad are integrated.
 8. The glove of claim 1, wherein saidpad is coupled with said at least one layer using an adhesive.
 9. Theglove of claim 1, wherein said at least one layer defines an openingoperable to accept said digit, and wherein said pad is disposed on aside of said at least one layer facing said opening.
 10. The glove ofclaim 1, wherein said at least one layer defines an opening operable toaccept said digit, and wherein said pad is disposed on a side of said atleast one layer opposite said opening.
 11. The glove of claim 1, whereinsaid pad is removable.
 12. The glove of claim 1, wherein said padcircumscribes said digit.
 13. A surgical glove comprising: a firstsection having a first thickness; and a second section coupled with saidfirst section and having a second thickness, wherein said secondthickness is larger than said first thickness, and wherein said firstand second sections are operable to at least partially cover a digit,wherein said first and second sections are watertight, and wherein saidsecond section is operable to reduce pressure on said digit responsiveto a force applied thereto by a surgical instrument.
 14. The surgicalglove of claim 13, wherein said digit is selected from a groupconsisting of a thumb and a finger.
 15. The surgical glove of claim 13,wherein said first and second sections are each selected from a groupconsisting of a medial section, lateral section, volar section and adorsal section.
 16. The surgical glove of claim 13 further comprising: athird section coupled with said first section and having a thirdthickness, wherein said third thickness is greater than said firstthickness.
 17. The surgical glove of claim 13, wherein said secondportion extends around said digit for at least 90 degrees.
 18. Thesurgical glove of claim 13, wherein said second section comprises amaterial selected from a group consisting of a polymer, an elastomer, anelastomeric gel, a silicone gel, an air-filled silicone gel, an acrylicgel, a polymer gel, latex, and a foam.
 19. The surgical glove of claim13, wherein said second section comprises a pad and at least one layer.20. The surgical glove of claim 19, wherein said pad is coupled withsaid at least one layer using an adhesive.
 21. The surgical glove ofclaim 13, wherein said at least one layer defines an opening operable toaccept said digit, and wherein said pad is disposed on a side of said atleast one layer facing said opening.
 22. The surgical glove of claim 13,wherein said at least one layer defines an opening operable to acceptsaid digit, and wherein said pad is disposed on a side of said at leastone layer opposite said opening.
 23. An apparatus comprising: a glovecomprising: at least one layer operable to at least partially cover adigit, wherein said at least one layer is watertight; and a pad coupledwith said at least one layer, wherein said pad is positioned away from atip section of said at least one layer, and wherein said pad is operableto reduce pressure on said digit responsive to a force applied thereto;and packaging operable to accept said glove.
 24. The apparatus of claim23, wherein said packaging is airtight.
 25. The apparatus of claim 23,wherein said packaging comprises a first portion operable to accept saidglove and further comprises a second portion operable to accept at leastone other glove.
 26. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein said first andsecond portions are joined at a seam, and wherein said seam is operableto form a hinge to allow said first and second portions to be folded onone another.